Travel Advice
Duration
14 Nights
Journey Type
Sailing from Senegal
Ports
10 Ports
5 May
Setting sail from Dakar
The busy, dusty streets of Senegal's capital Dakar are filled with life and colour, noises, smells and local music. The city extends over the Cap Vert peninsula - as the name suggests, it is a former French colony, and the distinctive atmosphere still has traces of the French influence. You can get a great view of the flat peninsula and ocean beyond from Les Mamelles (The Breasts), two small and appropriately shaped hills. The people here are friendly and helpful, so expect a warm welcome - but watch out for the usual hustles and scams of a busy city.
Don't miss
If you have time, take the ferry across to Île de Gorée – at first sight, a beautiful historic town, which will help bring alive the terrible history of three hundred years of slave trading.
6 May
At sea
7 May
Cape Verde: Fogo
The island of Fogo is a remarkable sight, a towering and still active volcano where several hundred hardy (or perhaps foolhardy) souls still insist on living inside the crater. The otherworldy volcanic landscape is extremely fertile, and we recommend trying the excellent wine produced here.
8 May
Cape Verde: Boa Vista
9 May
Cape Verde: São Nicolau
São Nicolau is one of the least known of the Cape Verde islands, and on first glance may appear barren and desolate. However, head inland and you’ll discover a lush interior of verdant valleys and soaring peaks, with some great mountain hikes on offer. The island’s quaint little capital, Ribeira Brava, is also well worth a visit.
10 May
Cape Verde: Porto Novo (Santo Antão)
Santo Antão is perhaps the most beautiful of all the Cape Verde islands, a landscape of spectacular peaks and ridges where houses cling precariously to the steep valley sides. The winding mountain roads, which take you up past banana and sugarcane plantations, are not for the faint of heart, but worth it for the stunning views from the top.
11-12 May
At sea
13 May
Canary Islands: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Said to have the world's most perfect climate, cosmopolitan Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria and the largest city in the Canary Islands. The charming old quarter, La Vegueta, is where you'll find the city's most interesting colonial architecture, while beach fans should head for lovely Playa de las Canteras.
14 May
Canary Islands: La Gomera
Little La Gomera is the quietest of all the Canary Islands, still barely touched by tourism. The dramatic landscape of craggy volcanic peaks and misty laurel forest is staggeringly beautiful, and the diminutive capital, San Sebastián, is low key and laid back.
15 May
At sea
16 May
Morocco: Agadir
Rebuilt after a terrible earthquake in 1960, Agadir is Morocco’s most popular beach resort, and there is a relaxed European feel that sets it apart from other Moroccan cities. The beachfront promenade is lovely and the waters are clean and clear, making this a popular winter sun destination.
17 May
Morocco: Safi
The Atlantic port of Safi is one of Morocco’s lesser known tourist destinations, but offers plenty of interesting sights, including the imposing Kechla citadel and the Dar al Bahar fortress, both of which were constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
18 May
At sea
19 May
Arriving in Lisbon
The roots of historic Lisbon's fame lie in its strategic position on the edge of the Atlantic and the fact it offers one of the world's greatest natural harbours. No surprise therefore that it became the home of the world's most famous explorers such as Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator. Built on seven hills, we always find Lisbon to be soulful, captivating and picturesque, with architecture which reflects its status as a great port.
Our tip
The appeal of Lisbon lies in the city itself with its two distinct architectural styles: the 16th century Belem district (Manueline) and the 18th century city centre (Pomabaline). Our tip: potter about...
Your home from home
Silver Wind is a little ship with an intimate style and personal service, which has earned her a well deserved loyal and dedicated following.
What we love
Silver Wind is a lovely size; with just 274 guests, she's a cruise ship in miniature, and an ice-strengthened hull allows her to offer both expedition and classic voyages. You can expect all the facilities and space of a larger ship, with the intimacy of a small yacht. She's comfortable in the middle of a great ocean, but can also slip up rivers and into tiny harbours.
| Capacity | 274 Guests (240 guests in polar waters) |
|---|---|
| Crew | 239 International Staff |
| Style | The Italian verve and sparkle of Silversea makes for a social, welcoming ambience and cosmopolitan style. The international passenger mix creates a sophisticated and elegant environment. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Dakar
The comfortable Radisson Blu is probably the best choice.
Sightseeing in Senegal
Outside Dakar lies the beautiful Pink Lake – Lake Retba. Its high salt content attracts a bacteria which creates the colour.
Our recommended hotel
The Pousada de Lisboa, newly opened in May 2015, has a great location in the heart of the city and an interior to wow you.
Take a day trip from Lisbon
Visit Sintra – Roman and Moorish influences make this magical city with its fairytale palaces and extravagant villas a must.
